Planning a trip to the Las Vegas Strip with kids? You’re in luck—there are plenty of family-friendly activities to enjoy. Once known as ‘Sin City’ for its nightlife and adult-oriented attractions, Las Vegas has transformed into a destination that offers themed hotels, thrilling rides, interactive exhibits, and shows for visitors of all ages. This guide covers all the best ways to make your visit fun for everyone.
Introduction to Family-Friendly Las Vegas
Las Vegas, a city once known for its vibrant nightlife and adult entertainment, has undergone a significant transformation in recent years. Today, it has become a popular destination for families, offering a wide range of activities and attractions that cater to all ages. From the famous Las Vegas Strip to Downtown Las Vegas, there’s no shortage of fun and excitement for kids and adults alike.
The Las Vegas Strip is now home to numerous family-friendly attractions, from themed hotels and thrilling rides to interactive exhibits and captivating shows. Downtown Las Vegas also offers a variety of activities that are perfect for families, ensuring that everyone in the family can find something to enjoy. Whether you’re exploring the iconic hotels, experiencing the thrill of the rides, or enjoying a family-friendly show, Las Vegas has something for everyone. In this article, we’ll explore the many family-friendly attractions and activities that Las Vegas has to offer, making it an ideal destination for a fun and memorable vacation with the whole family.
Key Takeaways
The Las Vegas Strip is packed with iconic hotels featuring immersive family attractions, from medieval castles to pirate shows!
Thrilling rides like the Big Apple Roller Coaster and fun spots like the Adventuredome ensure that kids have a blast in Las Vegas!
Family-friendly shows and interactive museums, along with delicious dining options, make for unforgettable adventures for the whole family!
Exploring Iconic Hotels on the Las Vegas Strip
The famous Las Vegas Strip is home to a variety of iconic hotels, each offering unique family-friendly attractions that will leave your kids in awe. The New York-New York Hotel, with its thrilling Big Apple Coaster, is a must-visit for families seeking excitement. From medieval castles to pirate ships, these hotels are destinations in their own right, providing endless entertainment for the whole family.
Start your adventure at the Excalibur Hotel, where the Fun Dungeon arcade beckons kids with exciting games and challenges. As you explore further, the Tournament of Kings dinner show offers an exhilarating experience with live-action entertainment that will transport you back to the times of knights and jousting.
Next, glide through the enchanting canals of The Venetian on a gondola ride. This charming experience is sure to be a highlight of your trip, creating lasting memories as you sail under the stunning replica of the Rialto Bridge. For a visual feast, head to the Bellagio, where the Chihuly glass ceiling and the Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Gardens showcase breathtaking art and seasonal floral displays.
At night, head to Treasure Island, where the illuminated pirate ships put on a captivating show, perfect for a family evening out. For a bird’s-eye view of the Strip, hop on the High Roller at The LINQ. This observation wheel offers not only stunning views but also educational aspects that will engage your kids.
Don’t miss the Luxor, where the Titanic exhibition includes a real iceberg you can touch, making history come alive for your children. Finally, at Caesars Palace, the Atlantis Show in the Forum Shops features animatronics and pyrotechnics that will leave your family mesmerized. Staying on the Strip ensures easy access to all these attractions, turning your visit to Las Vegas into a treasure trove of family memories.
Thrilling Rides and Attractions
Las Vegas is a paradise for thrill-seekers of all ages, offering a plethora of rides and attractions that promise to get your adrenaline pumping. The Big Apple Roller Coaster at New York-New York is a must-ride, featuring an iconic 180-degree heartline twist and dive that will have your family screaming with delight. With speeds reaching up to 80 mph, it’s an exhilarating experience that’s sure to be a highlight of your trip.
For a family-friendly attraction, visit the Pinball Hall of Fame on Las Vegas Blvd. This venue offers a variety of games and nostalgic value, making it a vibrant point of interest for visitors on this major strip.
For indoor fun, head to Adventuredome at Circus Circus, an indoor theme park packed with rides, laser tag, and mini-golf. Whether your kids are riding roller coasters or challenging each other to arcade games, there’s something for everyone in this five-acre wonderland.
Indoor skydiving is another unique attraction that offers the thrill of free-fall in a safe, controlled environment. It’s an ideal activity for experiencing the sensation of skydiving without jumping out of a plane.
But the fun doesn’t stop there. Las Vegas is brimming with family-friendly activities like arcades and themed attractions that cater to all ages. Whether you’re exploring the latest virtual reality games or enjoying a classic game of laser tag, downtown las vegas offers endless entertainment options in fabulous las vegas.
Finally, for a more laid-back thrill, take a ride on the High Roller Observation Wheel. This towering Ferris wheel offers panoramic views of the Strip and beyond, providing a breathtaking backdrop for family photos and a memorable conclusion to your day of adventure.
Kid-Friendly Shows and Entertainment
Las Vegas is renowned for its world-class entertainment, and there are plenty of shows that cater specifically to families. The Blue Man Group is a perennial favorite, captivating audiences with their unique blend of music, comedy, and multimedia theatrics. This show is a sensory delight that keeps kids and adults alike on the edge of their seats.
Experience a dance extravaganza with Jabbawockeez, whose mesmerizing routines and storytelling through movement will leave your family spellbound. Cirque du Soleil’s Mystère offers another unforgettable experience, combining acrobatics, humor, and imaginative set designs in a show that’s perfect for family travelers.
If you’re looking for something a bit different, the Popovich Comedy Pet Theater features trained pets performing humorous skits, while iLuminate blends dance with cutting-edge technology for a visually stunning performance. These shows have age recommendations, generally starting at 5 years old, ensuring that even the younger kids in your family can join in on the fun.
Interactive Museums and Exhibits
Families can combine fun with education at Las Vegas’ many interactive museums and exhibits. The Discovery Children’s Museum is a standout, featuring hands-on exhibits that cover science, art, and technology. Kids can engage in imaginative play and learn through interactive displays, making it a must-visit attraction.
Meow Wolf’s Omega Mart provides a surreal experience that blends art installations with a creative narrative, challenging traditional grocery store experiences. This multi-layered exhibit is filled with puzzles and hidden passages that will captivate both kids and adults alike.
Electric Playhouse offers another unique adventure, combining gaming with physical activity through life-sized video games that use motion sensors. It’s a fantastic way for families to stay active while having fun together.
The Museum of Illusions is perfect for those who enjoy mind-bending experiences. With rooms designed to distort perception and immersive installations, it’s a place where reality and illusion blur. Your family will love exploring the various tricks and installations that play with your senses.
At the Shark Reef Aquarium in Mandalay Bay, kids can get up close with over 2,000 animals, including sharks and rays. The touch pool experience, where they can feel stingrays and horseshoe crabs, adds an interactive element that’s both educational and thrilling.
Sweet Treats and Fun Dining
Dining in Las Vegas can be a delightful experience for families, with numerous restaurants offering kid-friendly menus and interactive dining options. At the Rainforest Café, kids can enjoy mini-burgers and dinosaur-shaped nuggets while surrounded by animatronic animals and simulated thunderstorms. It’s a dining adventure that’s so much fun for the entire family.
For a budget-friendly option, head to Black Bear Diner, where the ‘cubs menu’ offers delicious items priced under $5, ensuring that even picky eaters find something they love. Meanwhile, the Broken Yolk serves up breakfast favorites like pancakes and French toast sticks, making it a great spot for starting your day.
Sugar Factory is a hit with kids, thanks to its colorful rainbow sliders and loaded fries. For a unique twist, try Meraki Greek Grill’s ‘pita pitza’ from their children’s menu. Sports enthusiasts will enjoy Flanker Kitchen + Sports Bar, where the kids’ menu features fun items like cheeseburgers and chicken ‘goaltenders’.
Hershey’s Chocolate World allows kids to customize their own chocolate bars and even star in a TV ad, providing a sweet and memorable experience. Don’t forget to check out the huge milk chocolate Statue of Liberty, made from nearly 800 pounds of chocolate.
Free Family Activities on the Strip
Las Vegas offers plenty of free attractions that are perfect for families. The Fountains of Bellagio is a must-see, with its captivating choreographed light, water, and music show that runs multiple times a day. Watching the fountains dance against the backdrop of the Strip is a magical experience your family won’t forget.
Another free attraction is the Flamingo Wildlife Habitat, where kids can see exotic birds, fish, and turtles in a lush, serene environment. It’s a peaceful oasis in the midst of the bustling city, and a great place to relax and unwind.
The Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Gardens is another family-friendly spot where you can marvel at stunning seasonal floral displays. It’s a feast for the eyes and a fantastic way to spend some time without spending a dime.
More Fun Things to Do
In addition to the many attractions and activities mentioned earlier, Las Vegas has even more to offer families. Some other fun things to do in Las Vegas with kids include:
Visiting the Secret Garden and Dolphin Habitat at The Mirage: Here, you can see bottlenose dolphins, white tigers, and other exotic animals up close. It’s a fantastic opportunity for kids to learn about wildlife and conservation while having a great time.
Taking a Gondola Ride at The Venetian: Experience the romance and charm of Venice without leaving Las Vegas. The gondola ride at The Venetian is a delightful experience that the whole family will enjoy, as you glide through the picturesque canals and under charming bridges.
Exploring Family-Friendly Shows and Performances: The Las Vegas Strip is renowned for its world-class entertainment, and there are plenty of family-friendly shows to choose from. Productions by Cirque du Soleil and Le Rêve offer mesmerizing performances that will captivate audiences of all ages.
Visiting the Discovery Children’s Museum: This museum is a must-visit for families with younger kids. It features interactive exhibits and hands-on activities that cover science, art, and technology, making learning fun and engaging for children.
Taking a Trip to Red Rock Canyon: Just a short drive from the Strip, Red Rock Canyon offers breathtaking natural beauty and a variety of outdoor activities. Families can hike, bike, or simply take in the stunning scenery, providing a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.
With so many fun and exciting things to do, Las Vegas is the perfect destination for a family vacation. Whether you’re looking for adventure, education, or just plain fun, Las Vegas has something for everyone. So why not start planning your trip today and experience all that Las Vegas has to offer?
Outdoor Adventures Near the Strip
Just beyond the glittering lights of the Las Vegas Strip, families can find a variety of outdoor adventures. Red Rock Canyon is a popular destination, offering hiking trails, fossil observations, and bouldering opportunities. It’s a great way to experience the natural beauty of the Las Vegas Valley and enjoy some fresh air.
For a more relaxed outdoor experience, head to the Springs Preserve. This 180-acre cultural institution features walking trails and wildlife habitats, making it an engaging destination for families. It’s a perfect spot to learn about the local environment and enjoy a day out in nature.
Adventurous families can try ATV tours in the Mojave Desert, which provide an exciting way to explore the rugged landscape. Alternatively, kayaking on the Colorado River offers a serene and scenic adventure that’s suitable for all ages.
Tips for Navigating the Las Vegas Strip with Kids
Visiting Las Vegas with kids can be a fun and memorable experience for families, and navigating the Las Vegas Strip with kids can be a breeze with a few handy tips. Walking is a popular option, but for longer distances, the Las Vegas Monorail is a convenient choice. It operates from 7am to midnight on Mondays and until 2-3am the rest of the week, making it accessible for families exploring the Strip. Monorail tickets often come with discounts for shows and attractions, providing added value for families. Many hotels also offer free shuttle services, so be sure to check your hotel’s amenities for easy ways to get around.
For a more relaxing experience, consider reserving a private cabana at your hotel’s pool. It provides a comfortable space for your family to unwind and enjoy some downtime during your stay.
Las Vegas offers countless activities, which can be overwhelming. Prioritize and plan your activities based on your family’s schedule to make the most of your visit Las Vegas. From playing pinball to interacting with AI robots, there are countless ways to keep your kids entertained.
Summary
Las Vegas is truly a family-friendly destination with a wealth of activities that cater to all ages. From the iconic hotels with their unique attractions to thrilling rides, interactive museums, and mesmerizing shows, there’s something for everyone in the family to enjoy.
Exploring the Strip and its surroundings offers endless opportunities for adventure and fun. Whether you’re indulging in sweet treats, enjoying free attractions, or embarking on outdoor adventures, Las Vegas promises a memorable family trip.
So pack your bags and get ready to experience the vibrant and exciting world of Las Vegas with your kids. With careful planning and an adventurous spirit, you’re sure to create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any family-friendly shows in Las Vegas?
Absolutely! Las Vegas has a fantastic lineup of family-friendly shows like Blue Man Group, Jabbawockeez, and Cirque du Soleil’s Mystère, ensuring fun for everyone!
What are some free attractions on the Las Vegas Strip that families can enjoy?
You’ll love exploring the Fountains of Bellagio, the Flamingo Wildlife Habitat, and the stunning Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Gardens—all fantastic free attractions perfect for families! Enjoy hours of entertainment without spending a dime!
What outdoor activities are available near the Las Vegas Strip for families?
You’ll love the outdoor adventures near the Las Vegas Strip! Families can enjoy hiking at Red Rock Canyon, exploring the Springs Preserve, or even thrilling ATV tours in the Mojave Desert!
How can families get around the Las Vegas Strip?
Families can easily navigate the Las Vegas Strip by walking, hopping on the Las Vegas Monorail, or utilizing hotel shuttle services! The Monorail is especially fantastic, running late into the night, making your adventures hassle-free and fun!
What are some kid-friendly dining options in Las Vegas?
You’ll love the kid-friendly dining options in Las Vegas! Rainforest Café, Black Bear Diner, Sugar Factory, and Hershey’s Chocolate World all provide exciting menus and experiences that make family meals a blast!
Also check out which buffets are the best in Vegas!